Old Catton CofE VC Junior School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school aims to provide an environment filled with love, hope, and joy, which is evident in the positive experiences of its pupils. The curriculum is engaging and is delivered through creative lessons that foster confidence and optimism among students regarding their future. This positive atmosphere is reflected in the pupils' attitudes and their overall perception of the school.
The staff at Old Catton have high expectations for all students, and the strong relationships between pupils and teachers encourage hard work and dedication. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of the subjects they study, and their knowledge builds effectively across the curriculum. The school is well-organized and productive, with pupils understanding the importance of kindness and the unacceptability of bullying. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils feel confident that staff will address any issues that arise. The school also emphasizes safe choices and provides lessons on internet safety.
Pupils participate in a variety of creative and sports activities, such as choir and football clubs, which help them develop teamwork skills. They also enjoy educational trips to local historical sites, enhancing their learning experiences. The leadership team has designed a curriculum that is ambitious and relevant, allowing pupils to build strong knowledge in most subjects. Teachers are trained to help students connect new information with prior knowledge, ensuring a solid foundation for learning.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some subjects where the curriculum needs refinement to focus on key concepts that pupils should learn. In these areas, pupils may not achieve their full potential. Reading lessons are a particular strength, with staff tailoring instruction to meet individual needs, ensuring that younger pupils acquire essential skills quickly. The school boasts a rich collection of books that supports reading both in school and at home, introducing pupils to a diverse range of literature.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can access the full curriculum and overcome learning challenges. This support contributes to their success and confidence in completing tasks. The pastoral team plays a vital role in promoting pupils' personal development, providing informal mentoring and assisting parents in addressing barriers to learning. Pupils take pride in their responsibilities within the school and appreciate the recognition they receive for their good behavior and achievements.
Behavior in lessons is generally excellent, with minimal disruptions to learning. Staff manage behavior effectively, and pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of right and wrong. The governing body actively supports and challenges school leaders in their improvement efforts, and staff report that leaders are mindful of their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at Old Catton are effective, with a strong culture of safety in place. Staff are trained to recognize signs of distress or risk among pupils and collaborate with external agencies when necessary. Pupils are educated on recognizing unsafe situations and how to protect themselves.
To further improve, the school needs to clarify expectations regarding specific knowledge and skills in certain areas of the curriculum. This will help ensure that pupils achieve their full potential across all subjects. Overall, Old Catton CofE VC Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
